Donato Mancini

Donato Mancini (1473-1503) was a captain in the Papal States' army during the Italian Wars and an expert rider. He commanded the cavalry of Captain-General Cesare Borgia during his campaigns in Tuscany and Romagna.

Biography
A veteran soldier under the Borgia, Donato also served in the city guard. The chroniclers at court described him as a cold, loyal enforcer and an expert rider. One of Cesare Borgia's top horsemen, Donato Mancini's skill was only surpassed by his ego. During private riding contests at the Circo Massimo in Rome, he would make sure that he won through intimidation. In 1503, when he was beaten by one man, he smashed his wares. Shortly after, assassin Ezio Auditore da Firenze met the man and found out what happened, and decided to rid Cesare of a top general.

Death
Donato rode to the Circo Massimo, but as he was riding, he was ambushed by Ezio. Donato sent his men to kill him and he rode on his horse with his sword, attempting to trample and strike Ezio down. However, Ezio pulled him off his horse and one of Ezio's recruits stabbed him through the neck with two of their hidden blades.